Living a good life doesn’t have to be complicated, says Christian Angermayer, founder of the Enhanced Games, in a recent interview with columnist Ross Douthat on Interesting Times. Angermayer outlines five fundamentals he believes are crucial for optimizing health and longevity.
- Sleep – "Get your sleep in order," he emphasizes, calling it the top priority.
- Social relations – "Super cheap and super hard at the same time. Have a great life. Enjoy it. Have friends. Have family."
- Avoid drugs – Angermayer is adamant: no alcohol, cigarettes, or recreational drugs (except coffee and psychedelics, which he says are a separate topic). He calls alcohol "scientifically the worst" and "spiritually a path to hell." He also warns against marijuana for young people, claiming heavy use can reduce intellect.
- Exercise – Hit the gym two to three times a week, including both cardio and weight training.
- Mindful eating – Adopt a Mediterranean diet, noting that sugar is as harmful as many drugs.
Angermayer claims these basics account for "70 to 80 percent of your well-being and aging." Once they are covered, enhancements can build on that foundation.